Gilis: 3 small islands that inspire with their diversity

The Gili Islands off Bali are particularly attractive to adventurers because of the breathtaking underwater world. But it's not just the sea that exudes a pleasantly rushing calm, there is also an astonishing silence on land during the day, while at night the beat of the beach bars mixes with the sounds of the waves.

The Gili Islands

Strictly speaking, the word 'Gili' just means 'small island', but when people talk about 'the Gilis', they are usually referring to the three small paradise islands in the Bali Sea. The group of sandy islands rise only a few meters above the turquoise blue sea and consist of Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air.

Arrival

None of the three islands has its own airport, so you always arrive by boat. Either from Bali, about 100 km away, or from Lombok, about 30 km away. Numerous speedboats take you from the larger towns to the Gilis. The crossing is often turbulent and noisy, the small boats rock violently in the waves, the engines roar. But soon after arrival, when the boats have turned away from the island again, you are suddenly surrounded by an unfamiliar calm.

Motor-free - getting around on the Gilis

It may take you a moment to understand why things are more moderate than in your last location, but as soon as you realize it, the scales fall from your eyes. Unusually for Southeast Asia, there are no mopeds or scooters scurrying around on the Gilis, let alone cars. All three of these paradise islands are free of motorized vehicles. The options for getting around are classic and simple: on foot or by bike. Gili Trawangan, the largest of the three islands, can be crossed at a leisurely pace in two to three hours, the smallest, Gili Meno, in less than two hours.

The Cidomo

In addition to the many bicycles and walkers, there are also horse-drawn carriages on the barely paved paths. Locally, these are called cidomo. They are used to transport all kinds of things that are needed to keep the island running. At first glance, the idea of colorful horse-drawn carriages on the motor-free roads of the islands is romantic, but on closer inspection, the enthusiasm fades. Strictly speaking, the animals needed to pull the small carriages are actually ponies due to their size. On the Indonesian islands, they are primarily seen as a work tool, veterinary care is only moderately developed and the animals often have far too little opportunity to drink in the hot temperatures.

In the meantime, there are organizations such as Horses of Gili and Gili Eco Trustwhich has set itself the goal of drawing attention to the problems and at the same time ensuring improved conditions for the animals. If you would like to support this, please visit them.

The individual islands

1.      Gili TrawanganGili Trawangan is the largest of the three islands. It is the best developed and receives the most tourists. During the day, you can relax on the palm-covered sandy beaches or venture out into the turquoise waters with a snorkel and fins to explore the colorful coral reefs. At night, on the other hand, the beaches turn into party areas where you can dance and refresh yourself with cool drinks in countless beach cafés. If you don't necessarily want to party all night, it's still worth strolling around the island after sunset. One activity you shouldn't miss out on is the night market. This is the perfect place to buy all kinds of local delicacies to try.

2.   Gili Meno: Gili Meno is the smallest of the paradise islands. Meno is the most untouched and quiet, almost pristine. The beaches are breathtaking and if you need some me-time, you are sure to find a quiet spot here. The atmosphere exudes romance and attracts many lovers or honeymooners to the so-called 'Honeymoon Island'.

But one of the absolute highlights of Gili Meno lies four meters deep off the western coast. It is an art installation by Jason deCaires Taylor. There are 48 life-size standing figures to discover, which circle around just as many statues lying on the seabed. The material of the attraction is environmentally friendly and PH-neutral, so it does not harm the underwater world. On the contrary, corals and other creatures attach themselves to the statues. This makes the 'nest' a symbol of the countless small wonders in our oceans.  

3.      Gili Air: If you don't want to miss out on relaxation or partying, the best place to go is Gili Air. Here you'll find the perfect mix of both. The beaches are ideal for enjoying the sun and a cold coconut, and the sea also offers all kinds of possibilities: In addition to snorkeling and diving, stand-up paddle boards can be rented almost everywhere. The evenings are characterized by live music events, which makes the nights here particularly unique. But house and techno fans also get their money's worth.

Of course, you don't necessarily have to choose one of the islands; island hopping is also possible. Small boats travel back and forth between the Gilis every day and you can decide for yourself which one you want to stay on for longer. But be careful, some adventurers who only wanted to rest for a few days have stayed there for several years. 

You can also experience an adventure in Indonesia and on the Gilis with TripLegend. The two-week round trip starts in Bali, where you will visit a sacred Hindu shrine with your group and guide, spend a day helping out at the Turtle Conservation in Ubud and go on a waterfall tour. The second week takes you to Gilis Trawangan! You can find out what you will experience there in the travel details for the Bali and Gili round trip. 

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